118 Although designers can improve the sustainability of interiors by researching and understanding the impacts of the materials and processes they plan to use, the big wins come from working together with other stakeholders (owner, operator, yard, outfitters, classification society, etc.) to leverage best practices. Collectively, all those who are involved in a design project can benefit from having a better understanding of the processes and materials being used. In addition, a cooperative approach allows for greater clarity regarding which aspects of sustainability are key for the project, enabling these to be tracked throughout. For the best chance of achieving sustainability, it is necessary to plan for it from the start rather than adding it on as an afterthought. But although green choices should be embedded in the decision making process for functional requirements, design, material selection, operation, maintenance and decommissioning, it is often necessary to adapt to what the environment allows and find creative solutions within these limitations. Finding a suitable balance in this regard requires clear channels of communication between the brand and the design team, with the buy-in of the shipyard. If the owner commits to building sustainable interiors, the designer can create a sustainable design. The next stage involves the outfitter and yard taking the necessary actions to install the specified sustainable features. Good communication in this final phase is particularly important, to ensure that the yard does not inadvertently change sustainably flagged products for cheaper or more easily available alternatives. Opting for quality over quantity, and simplicity over ornamentation, helps to create a durable and timeless space that will not need the whole design to be changed every couple of years but has the flexibility to adapt to future needs. The design process also needs to take account of how the designed spaces and elements will be used when the ship is in service. However sustainable the design and construction of a space may be, it can only remain so if it is operated and maintained in a sustainable manner. The development and implementation of a programme for operational best green practices is an important aspect of any design. It is the responsibility of the ship owner to ensure that sustainability is regarded as a critical aspect of the overall project. The shipyard also needs to be onboard with this. However, for commercial spaces such as cruise ship interiors, it is essential that any changes introduced include the interests and needs of the guests who will travel on the ships. If these two aspects do not work in harmony, sustainability will not thrive. Even where there are laudable sustainability objectives for a space, these will only be met if the space meets the actual needs of the end users to whom it is being marketed. ADDRESS ING INDUSTRY I SSUES – “Sustainable interiors can be designed for flexibility, longevity and maximum efficiency by anticipating the end users’ present and future needs”
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